The Lonely Hearts Club by Radclyffe Read Free Book Online Page A

and had always thought her attractive, but their only interaction had been strictly professional. Parker worked in the real estate and property group, so their paths didn’t cross very often, and during business hours, the only thing Liz generally thought of was business. And of course, she had been married. And unlike Julia, she didn’t break her vows.
    “Hi Liz,” Parker said, her attention riveted to Candace. “I was just on my way over to the field and I saw you drive in.” She held out her hand to Candace. “I’m Parker.”
    Candace did a slow survey before raising slightly hooded eyes to Parker’s. “I’m Candace. I gather you play ball.”
    “I’ll play any game you’re interested in,” Parker replied. “I already like the sound of your exercise program.”
    “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind,” Candace said throatily. “If I’m looking for a workout partner.”
    Liz glanced at Bren, who rolled her eyes.
    Parker switched her attention to Bren, who still looked amused, and launched another mega-watt smile. “I didn’t get your name—an unconscionable oversight.”
    “Hi,” Bren said, extending her hand. “I’m Brenda.”
    “Good to meet you,” Parker replied, holding Brenda’s hand for an extra second. “So, what brings you all out here?”
    “A friend is playing,” Liz said, suddenly feeling protective of her relationship with Reilly and not knowing why. Maybe it was because she suddenly realized every unattached woman on the wide expanse of playing fields, and some of the not-so-unattached ones, was probably looking for a summer fling. And she didn’t want to be relegated to that category. “I didn’t know you played on a softball team, Parker.”
    “It’s a secret vice.” Parker fell into step as they climbed the slope to the fields. “Actually, about half my team is lawyers.” She laughed. “It’s amazing we get anything decided, what with all the debate that usually goes on.”
    “And what position do you play,” Candace asked, edging closer to Parker as they walked.
    “I pitch. Fastball.”
    “I just bet that you do,” Candace murmured.
    “Who are you playing tonight?” Liz asked as she realized they were all headed up the grassy expanse toward the diamond at the very top of the rise. Other playing fields were scattered over the lower part of the plateau.
    “A team from University Hospital—Angels of Mercy.”
    “You’re kidding,” Liz said. “That’s really their name?”
    Smiling, Parker nodded. “Ironic, too, because they’re just about the most competitive team in the league. Except, of course, for the Just Hammers.” Her grin widened and she glanced at Candace. “That would be my team.”
    “Is that the team Reilly plays on?” Bren asked Liz. “Angels of Mercy?”
    “I’m not sure. I didn’t ask her.”
    “Reilly Danvers?” Parker asked.
    Surprised, Liz said, “Yes. She’s my…our…she invited us.”
    “Then you came on the right night. Reilly’s the star hitter for the Angels, and our teams are tied for first place.” She leaned closer to Candace, her voice dropping bedroom low. “And tonight I’m pitching.”
    “Well, I just won’t know who to cheer for, then will I?” Candace said sweetly. She turned to Liz. “After all, we are here for Reilly, aren’t we?”
    “Oh, absolutely,” Liz said lightly. Candace had been probing her for more information about Reilly, and so far she had refused to take the bait. Thinking about introducing Candace to Reilly, she wondered if Candace was Reilly’s type. Almost every woman she’d ever known had been dazzled by Candace’s natural beauty and her playful, seductive manner. Suddenly, Liz was glad they’d run into Parker. At least for a night, Candace might have someone to focus on besides Reilly. Although, of course, if Reilly was interested, there was absolutely no reason why she shouldn’t date Candace. No reason at all.

    *

    Reilly swung through the pitch, feeling loose and